Controversial parking zone in Southsea is extended to other roads

During a well-attended meeting this week, Councillor Lynne Stagg approved the expansion of the MD zone in Southsea.

The zone, which surrounds but does not include Albert Road, now reaches to Allens Road, Gains Road, Herbert Road, St Ronan's Avenue, St Ronan's Road, Waverley Grove, Waverley Road and Welch Road.

However, the results of a survey on the extension sparked fierce debate as only 111 people from 961 households responded. Of these 74 were in support, 26 objected and 11 were unclear either way.

Speaking at the meeting, St Ronan's Avenue resident Mike Lowery said: 'There seems to be an awful lot of emphasis on the figures put forward by the council. Most of us know we can prove anything we like with figures and statistics.

'There were a number of residents down St Ronan's Avenue who said "yes, I need a space." However, they hadn't gone into it. Those that voted for or against didn't understand what they were voting for.'

But Cllr Stagg, Portsmouth City Council's traffic and transport cabinet memeber, said: 'Previously when I was cabinet member I said low responses were not good enough. I said it should be at least 51 per cent return and then 51 per cent in favour. It completely failed and there were no more parking zones implemented.

'The most we ever got was 34 per cent.

'I think this is a sensible one, I'm glad we have gone back to it and changed it.'

The decision on the MD zone was made at a meeting where the new MF zone was also approved.

Several residents and councillors took issue with the process of introducing zones in stages due to alleged displacement caused.

Conservative spokesman for transport, Cllr Simon Bosher, said: 'I think the whole process of bit by bit by bit is wrong. All we are doing is putting the misery along to the next street.'

Currently in the MD zone 1,640 permits have been issued and there are 1,659 spaces.

Permits are needed to park between 4.30pm and 6.30pm.